Video: American F-35s landed on a highway near Russia

Last week, two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jets landed on a highway in Finland, showcasing the impressive capabilities of the aircraft.

The American fighter jets completed their mission at a time when tensions with Russia remain sky-high as a result of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

“Now this is a huge deal for a number of reasons,” Alex Hollings, Sandboxx New’s Editor-in-Chief and host of AirPower on YouTube, said.  

“It is the first time an American fifth-generation fighter has operated from highways in Europe. Although not the first time F-35s have operated from highways by any stretch of the imagination. Though, usually, it would be the short-take off, vertical landing F-35B selected for the job,” Hollings added.

Following their feat, the two F-35As refueled on the ground and took off again to participate in simulated air combat with aircraft from Finland and Germany. The two NATO members have ordered the F-35A and will be adding it to their fleets later in the decade. 

In the event of a near-peer conflict with Russia or China, the F-35 fighter jet would be at the forefront of any fighting.

If you are looking to learn about the capabilities of the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet and its recent operations in Finland, watch Sandboxx New’s video of AirPower above.

Feature Image: A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II assigned to 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath, U.K., taxis down the highway strip during Exercise BAANA 2024, on Hosio Highway, Ranua, Finland, Sept. 04. During the exercise the U.S. Air Force collaborated with NATO Allies to adapt, innovate and strengthen our collective defense while making history by landing U.S. fighter aircraft on a Finnish highway strip demonstrating military capabilities and interoperability. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Scyrrus Corregidor)